Tito Ortiz has returned to the UFC. Fedor Emelianenko doesn't appear close to joining him.

UFC president Dana White announced a deal Friday to bring back Ortiz, the popular mixed martial artist who angrily left the league last year in a bitter public dispute with White over issues of respect and money.

The former light heavyweight champion has recovered from major back surgery and plans to fight late this year or on the UFC's Jan. 2, 2010, card.

White says negotiations with Emelianenko fell through because the Russian heavyweight's handlers are demanding a hefty co-promotion deal.

Emelianenko is widely considered the world's top fighter in his weight class, but has no home after the collapse of the Affliction promotion last week.